Tread in footsteps of highwaymen with duathlon

PEOPLE are being urged to enter this year’s Henley Highwayman.

The duathlon, which includes the new Henley Standard 5km, will take place next Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18.

For every entry, £2 will be donated to the Sue Ryder hospice in Nettlebed.

The cycle race will start in Market Place early on the first day. Riders can choose the distance they want to complete — either 62km, 120km or 182km.

On day two, the runners will take on one of four distances — 9km, 17km and 25km or the new 5km race.

About 300 people took part in last year’s inaugural event when it was a triathlon with a swim as well. Organiser Phil Harrison said he hoped to have 250 people competing on both days this year.

He said: “It’s hard to tell because we were at different dates last year and moved because of the VW Rally at Stonor Park changing its weekend. Because of that it is sort of like starting again.

“We think last year people saw it as a triathlon and they had to do all three events but we want to open it up to a big group, hence offering the 5km.

“By next year we would like to see about 700 or 800 people on the run.

“The ride is held on quiet, open roads through some of the most beautiful countryside and villages in the area. Plus you get full on-the-road support, with multiple feed stations, roving mechanical vehicles and all the atmosphere of the town centre start and finish.

“These were the badlands back in the days of the highwaymen, who hid out in these hills to rob the unwary, but there will be no hiding place on event day.

The Chilterns climb, drop and weave, making this a real challenge.

“But there is plenty to enjoy too. The run takes you high across the top of No Man’s Hill, where you will enjoy beautiful views of the river. It was this very vantage point that highwaymen would watch the boats unloading and plan their robberies.”

For more information and to enter, visit www.henleyhighwayman.co.uk

* The organisers are appealing for volunteers to help marshal the run. If you are interested, call (0118) 988 6041.